Computer applications used for producing and displaying digital
3D models are complex and require many hours of training to use. Because of
this, we explored using different digital techniques to produce 3D physical
models. These models can be used independently or can be used to enhance
virtual models. The models we produced represent real geological data from seismic,
X-ray computed tomography, and point cloud lidar sources. For each data set, a
different 3D physical technology was used to produce the model. The seismic
data is represented by an interlocking color model, with each color used to show
a different seismic attribute. A translucent 3D model showing cavities and
vugs within a limestone was produced from X-ray computed tomography data. The
last model represents cave geometry and was produced by replicating a lidar
point cloud in clear crystal glass. All three physical models or replicas
accurately portray the complex data, yet are scaled so they are small enough to
hold. New advances in 3D printing and computer technology allow scientists to produce
3D models from a wide variety of geological data rapidly to use for teaching and
research. These new techniques allow a fast turn around time between gathering
geological data and producing a 3D physical model.